Treats bacterial infections.

Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam) is only available as an injectable, so it's usually only given in the hospital. You can take Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam) at home, but it has to be stored in the fridge and used every 6 hours.

Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam) is a combination of two medicines: piperacillin and tazobactam. Piperacillin is an antibiotic that kills bacteria by preventing them from making their own protective covering. Tazobactam helps piperacillin work against more infections by stopping breakdown of the antibiotic by bacteria.

Risks and Warnings for Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam)

Although rare, Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam) can cause a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. Let your doctor know of any allergies to antibiotics. If you get a high fever, rash, itchy skin, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or mouth, or dramatic skin changes in your nose, mouth or genitals while taking Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam), talk to your doctor or go to the emergency room right away.

Common concerns from people taking Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam)

Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam) can cause an imbalance of sodium and potassium in the body because it contains sodium. If you're on a low or no-sodium diet because of your kidneys, or if you're taking medicines that affect your potassium (blood pressure medications like Lasix or a water pill), your doctor might have to change them. Your doctor might do blood tests to check your body's sodium and potassium. Make sure to talk to your doctor about your diet and medicines before starting Zosyn (piperacillin-tazobactam).

If you have kidney problems or are on a low or no sodium diet, you might not be able to use this medication.